Nefertiti Walker has been selected to serve as interim chancellor of the University of Massachusetts Boston. She will begin her new role on February 1.
UMass Boston enrolls about 12,100 undergraduates and 3,400 graduate students, according to the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Education. Black students represent some 17 percent of the undergraduate population.
Currently, Dr. Walker serves as senior vice president for academic affairs, student affairs, and equity at UMass Amherst. Earlier in her tenure, she was vice chancellor for equity and inclusion and associate dean for an inclusive organization in the Isenberg School of Management. A faculty member since 2011, she currently holds the rank of full professor in the Mark H. McCormack Department of Sport Management. Her research examines organizational exclusion, aiming to understand the experiences of leaders, teams, and individuals, and utilizes these insights to design a more effective organizational culture.
“I have always had a special appreciation for the inspiring mission of UMass Boston and for the incredible faculty, staff, and students who bring that mission to life,” said Dr. Walker. “I look forward to working closely with and supporting all members of Boston’s public research university through this transition.”
Dr. Walker earned her bachelor’s degree in sport management and her MBA from Stetson University in Florida. She holds a Ph.D. in sport management from the University of Florida.
